The EU’s strategic interest in “a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean” is underlined in the conclusions of the European Council conclusions on Turkey.
In particular, it is stated that “the European Council reverted to the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean and the European Union’s relations with Turkey, and recalled the EU’s strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Turkey.”
At the same time, “it welcomes the de-escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean, which needs to be sustained in line with the statement by the Members of the European Council of 25 March 2021.”
The European Council reiterates the EU’s readiness to work with Turkey “in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner” to enhance cooperation in various areas of common interest, subject to the conditions set out in March and in previous European Council conclusions.
In this context, it noted the launch of work at the technical level towards a mandate to modernize the EU-Turkey customs union and recalled the need to address the current difficulties in implementing the customs union, ensuring its effective implementation in all Member States.
The Council also noted the preparatory work for high-level dialogues with Turkey on issues of mutual interest, such as immigration, public health, climate, counter-terrorism and regional issues.
The European Council called on the Commission to put forward without delay formal proposals for the continuation of financing of Syrian refugees and host communities in Turkey, Jordan, Lebanon and elsewhere in the region, in line with the statement of the Members of the European Council of March 2021 and within the context of the EU’s overall migration policy.
The European Council recalled its previous conclusions and “remains fully committed to the comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem on the basis of a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.”
In addition, it “underlines the importance of the status of Varosha and calls for full respect of UN Security Council Resolutions, in particular Resolutions 550, 789 and 1251,” and regrets that the informal meeting in Geneva under the auspices of the United Nations did not pave the way for the resumption of formal negotiations. The European Union will continue to play an active role in supporting the process.
The rule of law and fundamental rights in Turkey remain a key concern.
The leaders point out that “the targeting of political parties, human rights defenders and media represents major setbacks for human rights and runs counter to Turkey’s obligations to respect democracy, the rule of law and women’s rights. Dialogue on such issues remains an integral part of the EU-Turkey relationship. Dialogue on such issues remains an integral part of the EU-Turkey relationship.”
In the common interest of the EU and Turkey for regional peace and stability, the European Council “expects Turkey and all actors to contribute positively to the resolution of regional crises.”
Source: ANA-MPA